Charles Wilkes “U.S. Exploring Expedition” set This is the 1845 five volume set, the 1st published commercial edition after two small “special” sets published in very small numbers. The title page reads as follows:



These cover the years 1838-1839, 1840, 1841 and 1842. There is controversy as to whether this set was published with a 6th volume atlas. Even though it so states on the title page, some believe it was published by C. Sherman for Lea and Blanchard in Philadelphia, also without the atlas.

In any case, it really doesn’t matter, because this set does not have the atlas. These 5 volumes also have been stripped of their plates and maps.

The condition of the set, which is the imperial octavo size (7 ½” x 11”) is complete other than as noted and the interiors are clean and unmarked except the simple library stamp and a few also have a book plate. There are some few pages that are loose, but present.

The bindings are well used and show significant rub and wear, and two volumes have splits along the sides of their spines, but spines are present and boards are holding (see the pictures and ask questions before you bid).

The text is complete and page illustrations are present. This is an inexpensive opportunity to have all of the textual content and a reasonably presentable shelf appearance.